Short-term rental permit rules in Santa Clara County, CA — also called Airbnb permits, vacation rental licenses, or STR registration — list the application steps, fees, and operating requirements for hosting.
Short-term rentals in unincorporated Santa Clara County require TOT registration with the County Department of Tax and Collections. No separate STR permit system like incorporated cities.
Unincorporated Santa Clara County requires owners/operators of temporary lodging (including homes rented through Airbnb, HomeAway, etc.) to register for TOT collection. Registration is through the County's TOT Online portal. Payment is due monthly (previous month's tax by last day of current month). Tax must be listed separately from rental price on receipts. Contact: santaclaracounty@hdlgov.com or (408) 550-8678.
Operating without permit: $500 to $1,000/day. Safety violations: immediate suspension. TOT non-remittance: back taxes + penalties.
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See how Santa Clara County's permit requirements rules stack up against other locations.
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